OPINION — As a Mesa mom, I recently attended a community listening session hosted by Stand for Children Arizona where parents shared the challenges of finding and affording childcare. I appreciated that U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton and state Rep. Lorena Austin took the time to listen because these are conversations every elected official needs to hear.
Like many parents, I want to work, but childcare costs make that nearly impossible. A second paycheck would make a tremendous difference for my family. It would help us cover everyday expenses, provide more opportunities for my daughter and build a more secure future. Instead, too many parents are forced to choose between working and paying for childcare they simply cannot afford.
My daughter was fortunate to attend Head Start, and I have seen firsthand the difference a high-quality early-learning program can make. She entered school with a strong foundation. Every child deserves the same opportunity to learn, grow and succeed. That's why protecting and strengthening early-learning programs like Head Start is so important for Arizona families.
